Syringe drivers Flashcards
1
Q
What is a syringe driver?
A
Small, portable battery operated pump used for symptom management
SC or IV
Two or three drugs administered (sometimes single drugs)
2
Q
Indications of syringe driver
A
- Persistent nause + vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing oral medication
- Poor GI absorption
- Weakness
- Unconciousness
3
Q
Most common syringe driver drugs
A
Diamorphine Midazolam Metaclopramide Levomepromazine Haldol and midazolam
4
Q
Ways to minimise stability issues
A
- Dilute to maximum volume
- Protect from light
- Consider temperature
- Deliver over 24 hours
5
Q
Why does syringe driver require licensing
A
Combining 2 or more licensed drugs in a syringe driver results in the formation of a new product that requires a license
6
Q
Concerns with syringe drivers
A
- Errors
- Requires education and training
- Common misconception that syringe drivers are linked to death
